Hints from Heloise: Flash drives don't hold files long-term

Dear Heloise: I panicked when I read your column about the family photos that were being archived on flash drives. These drives are temporary, and eventually they will lose the pictures.

The best method is to put them on a DVD and make two copies. This can be done from the flash drive, or you can transfer the photos to your computer and then make the DVDs. This will preserve your photos. -- Julie S., Bella Vista, Ark.

Dear Julie: The reader had put family photos on flash drives to give to many relatives. She was not necessarily "archiving" them.

Please note that the life span of a CD/DVD is not forever. Storage conditions can affect them, and remember, hard drives can crash. -- Heloise

Dear Heloise: I thought that the ATM safety hints you recently published were good ones. One hint I'd like to add is about drive-thru ATMs. It's a good idea to move out of the ATM area immediately after your transaction, especially if there is a line of cars behind you.

Many drive-thru ATMs have enough room in front of them for you to pull ahead a bit and put everything away. If not, try to move to a parking spot where you can safely put everything away. -- Art K.

Dear Art: Very good advice indeed. A reminder, though: Be absolutely sure that your vehicle's doors are locked, and if you move to someplace else, check that you are not followed. -- Heloise

Dear Heloise: I enjoy spending hours outside in the summertime. I wear sunscreen every day and take care to make sure I don't get any sun damage. Lately, I'm noticing that my hair is getting dry and brittle, and the color is fading. What can I do to save my hair? -- Belinda in New Mexico

Dear Belinda: Most of us don't realize what the sun can do to hair until the damage is already done.

Sunlight, especially at midday, can lighten and dehydrate your hair. The best thing you can do is protect your hair. Cover your hair with a scarf or hat, or even an SPF spray made for hair protection.

If you are outside in bright sunlight a lot, a good hair conditioner should be part of your hair care. -- Heloise